A couple of weeks ago, we asked our viewers on Facebook to suggest some topics that would interest them for our Health Beat with Dr. Alicia Arnold.

This week, we’re discussing another popular topic among our viewers: shingles.

Meghan Kulig: Can you give us some background on this condition?

Dr. Arnold: Shingles is a painful rash that occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox, Varicella zoster, reactivates. Those of us who had chickenpox, usually as a child, were infected with this virus. Even after recovery from chickenpox, the virus that caused the disease can remain in parts of our nerves without causing any symptoms. While we don't know exactly what causes the virus to become active again, it often occurs in older individuals who may have weakened immune systems. When the virus reactivates, it causes a blistering rash in the region related to the affected nerve, usually in a band-like area.

Meghan Kulig: Are there any other symptoms besides the rash?

Dr. Arnold: Initially, patients may complain of mild virus-like symptoms. There can be itching, pain, or burning on the skin. This may be followed by a rash which may look a little bit like hives. Painful clusters of blisters then appear on the skin. This blistering rash can last weeks and can even cause scarring. Sometimes patients continue to have severe pain even after the blisters are gone. This is called post-herpetic neuralgia.

Meghan Kulig: Can you briefly describe some treatments that a patient may have?

Dr. Arnold: Treatment of shingles may involve various medications. Antiviral drugs can help reduce the severity of shingles, and they are best given early in the illness, which is why it is important to see your healthcare provider early if you suspect you may have shingles. Pain medications can be given if needed.

Meghan Kulig: I understand that there is a vaccine to help prevent shingles. Who should consider receiving it?

Dr. Arnold: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adults aged 60 years and older receive a one-time dose of the vaccine, unless an individual has a contraindication to receiving it.

Meghan Kulig: Is shingles contagious?

Dr. Arnold: Yes, someone who has shingles can spread the virus to others. Anyone who is infected will develop chickenpox though, not shingles. So if you have shingles, you are going to want to avoid contact with anyone who has not had chickenpox or not been vaccinated against chickenpox, like a newborn.